Sue Black beaten out for Dallas parks job

Sue Black, who was fired last year as Milwaukee County parks director, has been passed over for a job as parks director in Dallas.

The Dallas Park and Recreation board voted unanimously this week to promote an internal candidate, assistant director Willis Winters, to the job that pays $170,000 annually, according to the Dallas Morning News. Black was the only other finalist.

Last year, Milwaukee County Executive Chris Abelebounced Black from her county parks position with little explanation, except to say, "I can get better service." Abele staffers later linked the move to what they say was a pattern of poor communication and a poorly handled park lease deal.

The move was heavily criticized by County Board members and others. Black - who has a long history of butting heads with her bosses - was paid nearly $140,000 a year.

About Daniel Bice

Daniel Bice is a Watchdog columnist covering Wisconsin government and politics. His “No Quarter” column has won a National Headliner Award for best local interest column.